Britain will remain on storm alert with a barrage of high winds and heavy rain likely to continue battering the country and areas of Essex.

The remnants of ex-hurricane Helene will continue to clear north-eastwards overnight on Tuesday (September 18), however a succession of low pressure cells will bring further stormy weather to the British Isles on Wednesday.

Gusts of 35mph are expected to lash the county of Essex throughout the day, but it will feel warm with highs of 24 degrees.

Yesterday, warnings that Storm Helene could pose a danger to life when it hits this week have been downgraded - but forecasters warned coastal communities to stay vigilant.

The Met Office warned on Friday the storm could bring hazardous conditions when it sweeps across the north of England and Wales and through the Republic of Ireland.

Heavy rain and strong to gale force and gusty southwesterly winds will move into Ireland and western Scotland.

Sustained winds will speed up to around 35-40mph over the north and west, with gusts of 45-50mph for exposed coastal areas.